Keith Batcheller: Fine Artist & Illustrator - Epi. 242, Host Dr. Mark Sublette

I had fine artist and Illustrator Keith Batcheller on the podcast today. He went to ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, got his BFA, and worked with all these interesting folks afterward, including Bob Peak, Mark English, and Bernie Fuchs. 

When Keith became a professional illustrator he worked with big firms in New York, Chicago, and L.A.  He eventually started working for Walt Disney Productions and did artwork for massive animated films like Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast, the Hunchback of Notre Dame, Hercules, and my personal favorite - Lilo & Stitch.

Disney still uses Keith's illustrations to this day for all sorts of different reasons, whether it's for a Hercules toy or a Star Wars celebration event. It's just a fascinating ride. Keith also worked on the promotional art and packaging for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures that took the country by storm in the late 80s/early 90s. Fast forward to today, and he's moved on from his highly successful illustration career (like many of the artists that I've interviewed have) and is focusing on fine art. 

We talk about the switch from illustration to fine art and explore the concept of beginning your journey on one very specific path, only to arrive at a completely different destination after decades of hard work and dedication to said path. I think the only way you can do that as an artist is that you have to be able to pivot. Keith? Yeah, he's done that quite successfully if you ask me.  Keith Batcheller on Art Dealer Diaries Podcast episode 242.